La Salle River
Following the Great Blue Heron
Gentle and slow moving, the La Salle River offers a quiet, rural pace just south of Winnipeg. But you will not be lonely on this river. Great Blue Herons rise from the trees to spread their broad grayish-blue wings. White-tailed deer sip at the water’s edge. Painted turtles sun themselves on a fallen tree jutting into the river.
Launch from La Barriere Park the most popular spot along the La Salle. Drift along or practice your strokes while negotiating the river’s bends and turns. Pick up a few tricks from experienced paddlers at Paddle Manitoba’s Wednesday evening gatherings on the water. Bring your own canoe or use the equipment provided. The evenings are family friendly, no experience required.
Like the Seine and the Assiniboine, the La Salle eventually flows into the Red River.
Take a Tour
Family Friendly Canoe Adventure
Start from La Barriere Park, but on your way there, pick up fresh fixings or ready-made lunch at the St. Norbert Farmers’ Market. Paddle upstream, westbound, till you are hungry then tie up to a tree along the river for a floating meal. Afterwards, drift back to your put-in spot.
Duration: Half to full-day
Want More of a Challenge?
Start in the Town of La Salle and paddle west till you feel like turning around. Heads up through the Kingswood Golf Course! Fill up before you go with a scrumptious locally sourced breakfast on the patio at Ground Roots Café located next to the historic Trappist Monastery. Spend the rest of the day at the junction of the Red and La Salle Rivers in St. Norbert Provincial Heritage Park. Tour the restored Turenne and Bohémier houses from the late 1800s.
Duration: Half-day
